Falling is one of the most common and serious problems because advancing age has been associated with muscle weakness, reduced cutaneous sensation. A simple method is desired that can evaluate the physical functions of the aged against fall. This study was proposed a toe-gap force measurement of new method to estimate the lower limb muscular power. In the proposed method, the clipping toe-gap force is measured between the great toe and the digitus secundus. The toe-gap force in this situation, is muscles of the lower limb, which are supposed to have roles in the effort against falling. The aim of this paper was examined the aging change of lower limb muscular power focused fore part of the feet for 310 people (20 to 95 years old) include the physical weakness elderly. From the results, as for the male, it was suggested from 44 to 64 years old, as for female that lower limb muscular power declines from 65 years old. When the toe-gap force was less than 4 kgf in the male and less than 3 kgf in the female, it was indicated that a falling risk increases. The training program adjusted both psychological and physical feature of a subject was developed, as self-care of feet and training program of custom made based on the physical functions. We attempted to intervene to 28 elderly people using the training program. As the results, it was shown clearly that the lower limb muscular power of the subject who exercised enhances.

DESCENTE SPORTS SCIENCE Vol.28/THE DESCENTE AND ISHIMOTO MEMORIAL FOUNDATION FOR THE PROMOTION SPORTS SCIENCE